Exaptation

Exaptation is a process where a trait originally evolved for one purpose is co-opted for a new function. Unlike adaptation, which develops traits specifically to meet certain needs, exaptation involves pre-existing features that gain new roles over time. For example, feathers initially evolved for temperature regulation but later enabled birds to fly. This concept highlights how biological features can be repurposed, contributing to evolutionary diversity and innovation without requiring new traits to arise from scratch.